PHASES OF RENAISSANCE ARCHITECTURE

The Early Renaissance (15th century) in Italy was a period of resurgence in classical
Greco-Roman architectural elements, characterized by a focus on humanism,
perspective, classical influence, naturalism, individualism, patronage,
technological advancements, and architecture. Key features of this period include a
revival of classical Greek and Roman knowledge, the development of linear
perspective, classical influence, and a heightened focus on nature and human
form. Artists like Masaccio and Brunelleschi created realistic and three-dimensional
artwork, while Renaissance artists sought inspiration from classical antiquity. Artists like
Leonardo da Vinci and Donatello excelled in creating lifelike figures and detailed
anatomy. Wealthy families and city-states sponsored art and artists, leading to
numerous commissions and cultural flourishing. Technological advancements, such
as oil paint and the printing press, allowed for more vibrant and long-lasting works.
Architectural concepts like classical orders (Tuscan, Doric, Ionic, Corinthian, and
Composite).and Roman arches and domes were also developed. The Renaissance
also marked a period of renewed interest in architecture, philosophy, theology,
mathematics, science, and design.

El Escorial Florence Cathedral

The High Renaissance, lasting from the late 15th to early 16th centuries, was a period
of artistic and intellectual refinement that built upon the achievements of the Early
Renaissance. Key features included the mastery of classical techniques by artists
like Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, and Michelangelo, idealized human forms,
naturalism and chiaroscuro, monumental works like Michelangelo's "David" and
"The Last Supper," support from wealthy patrons like the Catholic Church and
prominent Italian families like the Medici, and the development of the Renaissance Man
concept. The Renaissance Man emphasized a well-rounded individual excelling in
various fields, while humanism remained a driving force. The High Renaissance
saw a cultural shift towards humanism, reverting to classical Roman and Greek
philosophy, resulting in new depictions of divine topics and human emotionality, with
cultural centers like Florence and Rome playing a crucial role.attracting artists, scholars,
and thinkers from all over Europe.

Santa Maria Novella Villa la Rotonda

Mannerism, a late 16th-century architectural movement, emerged as a reaction to the

High Renaissance. It featured elegance, artificiality, and complex compositions,
often elongating human figures and introducing exaggerated poses. Mannerist
artists also used unconventional proportions and scales, creating ambiguity and
dissonance. They incorporated symbolism and obscure references, challenging
viewers to decipher hidden meanings. Mannerism rejected classical balance and
proportion, favoring a more emotional approach. It received patronage from the church
and aristocracy, but was seen as a more intellectual expression. Mannerism spread
beyond Italy to other parts of Europe, including Spain, France, and the Netherlands. It
is often seen as a transitional phase between the High Renaissance and the
Baroque period.

Piazza del campidoglio Basilica di San Vittore al Corpo

GUIDE QUESTIONS:

1. What can be the reason why that phase has those features?

The Early Renaissance has these features because of the rediscovery of classical
antiquity, which led to the emulation of classical styles in art and architecture was
prominent. The help of technological advance also emerged due to the financial support
to artists and scholars of the aristocratic family that gave more opportunities for artistic
and intellectual exploration. Realistic and immersive artworks were a result of innovation
in art where they mastered the 3D space on a 2D surface. The High Renaissance
exhibited the perfect and harmonious features because of the support from powerful
institutions and rulers where they provided substantial financial support for artists so
they could focus on their craft. They have gained a deep understanding of human
anatomy, as seen in ancient Greek and Roman art. The exceptional talent and creativity
of artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, and Michelangelo has a huge impact on this
phase. Mannerism emerged as a reaction against the classical harmony, balanced
compositions, and perfection of the High Renaissance. This was influenced by the
intellectual and cultural changes of the late 16th century, including religious and
philosophical shifts, which led to a desire for art that broke away from traditional norms
and conveyed the complexity of human emotions and experiences.

2. For you, what are the best elements of each phase?

In Early Renaissance architecture, the best element is the incorporation of classical

elements and principles from ancient Greece and Rome. This revival created a sense of
balance, proportion, and harmony in buildings, setting the stage for the Renaissance’s
architectural excellence. While in the High Renaissance, the perfect harmony and
proportion in its designs were stunning. High Renaissance architects, such as Donato
Bramante with his Temppietto and Andrea Palladio with his Villa Rotonda, achieved a
level of classical balance and beauty in their buildings that remains influential and
admired to this day. On the other hand, the interesting feature of mannerism is its
embrace of unconventional and innovative design elements like distortion,
exaggeration, and unexpected spatial arrangements, resulting in unique and
emotionally charged buildings that defied traditional norms.

3. How does the Renaissance compare to the Gothic period?

Renaissance and Gothic are distinct art and architectural movements. The Renaissance
celebrated humanism, classical influences, and realism. In contrast, the Gothic
prioritized divine awe, intricate ornamentation, and pointed arches in its art and
architecture. This transition from the Gothic to the Renaissance marked a shift from
unreachable spirituality to human-centered creativity. Gothic was indeed remarkable;
however, as humans, we can relate to and appreciate the Renaissance more since it
takes a more realistic approach and is more emotionally engaging.
HISTORY OF ARCHITECTURE 02

PHASES OF
RENAISSANCE
ARCHITECTURE

CANTILERO,DARLYN FAITH Z.
CHUA, CHARLS MARIS S.
MANALESE, CYAN G.
MERCADO, MARY AYESHA ROSSETH O.
VISCA, DEBORAH MAE F.

ARCH21S1